Self-Determination Theory (SDT) - Vocabulary Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and definitions from the SDT lecture notes.

Self-Determination Theory (SDT)

An organismic theory of motivation describing how motivation arises from the interaction between the individual and the environment; emphasizes intrinsic motivation and related mini-theories.

Intrinsic motivation

Motivation to engage in an activity for its own sake; long-lasting and personal, driven by autonomy and a sense of competence.

Autonomy

The sense of volition or choice in performing an activity.

Volition

Another word for choice; the act of choosing to engage in an activity.

Competence

Feeling capable and effective; success strengthens inner drive to participate.

Extrinsic motivation

Motivation driven by external rewards, recognition, or pressures rather than inner satisfaction.

Social environment (extrinsic motivation source)

External social factors that influence motivation (e.g., rank, league position, team selection).

Controlling events

Extrinsic influences such as rewards or pressures that regulate one’s behavior.

Motivating events (unmotivating events)

Extrinsic influences that can enhance motivation; opposite can be negative performance or poor attribution reducing motivation.

Extrinsic regulation

A form of extrinsic motivation where behavior is driven by external feedback or rewards.

Introjected regulation

An internalized extrinsic regulation driven by internal pressures (e.g., guilt, self-esteem concerns).

Identified regulation

An extrinsic regulation where the individual values the activity as personally important and accepts it.

Integrated regulation

The most autonomous form of extrinsic motivation; behavior aligns with self-identity and values.

Organismic integration

The process of integrating extrinsic motivations into the self, moving toward internalization of motivation.

Cognitive Evaluation Theory (CET)

A mini-theory explaining that intrinsic motivation comes from autonomy and competence, with extrinsic influences arising from social environment, controlling events, and informational/motivating events.

Causesity orientation

The extent to which individuals are exposed to autonomy-supportive, controlling, and motivating environments.

Autonomy-supportive environment

An environment that supports choice and autonomy.

Controlling orientation

A causality orientation describing a tendency to experience or seek controlling environments.

Motivating environments

Environments that negatively influence attitude toward participation or performance.

Basic Psychological Needs Theory (BPNT)

Theory proposing three basic needs for intrinsic motivation—autonomy, competence, and relatedness—and a distinction between intrinsic and extrinsic goal contents.

Relatedness

Feeling connected and cared for in social interactions; considered highly important for intrinsic motivation.

Goal contents

The distinction between intrinsic goals (e.g., health, well-being) and extrinsic goals (external rewards, recognition).

Intrinsic goals

Goals oriented toward personal growth, health, and well-being.

Extrinsic goals

Goals oriented toward external rewards, recognition, or other external outcomes.

Relationship motivation

Emphasis on relatedness as a key driver of intrinsic motivation; social connections are central to engagement.